How to Apply

The application process is entirely online. Please complete and/or upload all of the items listed below to your application account. There is no need to mail items to our office.

Bachelor's Degree

Applicants who hold a Bachelor's degree in any field from an accredited institution. Fluency or successful completion of a second-semester, university-level, non-English language course is recommended but not required for admission to the program. Please visit “Program Details” for more information.

Test Requirements

The GRE General test score is not required in the application.

For international applicants, an English Language exam score (TOEFL, IELTS or PTE) is required.

Transcript (Academic Record)

Upload a copy of your transcript from each university and college attended. Please ensure the institution’s name and your name is on the document you upload. Transcripts from any schools and study abroad programs must be submitted since Bachelor's Degree institutions typically do not list transfer and study abroad courses with grades. If still enrolled in your Bachelor's program, submit a copy of your transcript showing in-progress courses. If admitted, an official transcript with proof of graduation is required. USF undergraduates upload their unofficial transcripts for admission review and do not need to send an official USF transcript.

Statement of Purpose

A 500-700 word, double-spaced typewritten document that describes your personal, academic, and professional reasons for pursuing an MA in International Studies, and for choosing this program at USF. The statement should relate your workplace experiences and international studies background (including jobs, internships, community activities) to your educational and professional goals.

Resume or CV

Your current resume or CV lists and describes your educational history, work or job history, coursework related to this graduate program, and any experiences relevant to your pursuit of graduate studies – including internships, published articles or other published materials, volunteer/community service experience, study or work outside of your home country, and any interests or activities related to this graduate program.

Letters of Recommendation

Two letters of recommendation letters by individuals who can attest to your ability to succeed in the research and writing required by this program (at least one letter from a professor; preferably both letters are academic recommendations). Additional letters are accepted. Follow the instructions in the online application to provide the contact information for your recommenders.

You may submit your application before your recommenders upload their letters.

International Applicants

There are additional items and instructions for international applicants.

Notification of Admission

Applicants are typically contacted four to six weeks after the priority application date about an admission decision, and any possible scholarship awarded by the program. The admission committee evaluates each application based on all application items required, background related to international studies, and professionalism displayed throughout the application process.